​Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) will begin from October 1, 2013 to implement the new rates for subsidized fodder provided to those card holding animal wealth breeders who are currently entitled to it.

Ahmed Abdul Karim Al Sharaf, Acting Director of Communication and Community Service at ADFCA, said the new rates will be applicable as per the quantity of fodder purchased. "If the purchase is within 10 tons, each ton will cost AED 300 per month. If it is more than ten tons and less than 20 tons, the cost will be AED 500 per ton per month. If the purchase is more than 20 tons, cost price will apply, which will be AED 1600 per ton per month," he explained.

Al Sharaf explained that the provision of fodder subsidies for card holding animal wealth owners would be on the basis of the number of animals already registered in the Animal Identification and Registration System in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

Al Sharaf called upon animal breeders to keep the fodder safe by regular cleaning of the warehouses and eradicating insects. Fodder should not be stored in a random manner, leading to its rot and subsequent health hazards for the animals. They should carefully read the instructions on the bags and packets containing fodder before buying it," he added.

Al Sharaf stressed the importance of designing the fodder warehouses in a way that prevents rainwater, moisture and direct sunlight. "There should be sufficient ventilation, in addition to fire alarms and fire extinguishers. When using the fodder, the old stock should be used before the fresh stock in order to avoid stockpiling," he pointed out.

Al Sharaf also called upon animal breeders to make sure that they buy fodder in accordance with the age, type, health conditions and productive stage.